Shock and Hemodynamic Instability Flashcards
6 cards from real AMLS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Shock and Hemodynamic Instability flashcards as text
What is the target mean arterial pressure (MAP) in septic shock management per Surviving Sepsis guidelines?
Answer: 65 mmHg or greater
The Surviving Sepsis Campaign recommends maintaining a MAP of 65 mmHg or greater in septic shock to ensure organ perfusion.
Which class of hemorrhagic shock (using ATLS classification) first shows altered mental status?
Answer: Class III (30–40% blood loss)
Class III hemorrhage (30–40% blood volume loss) is the first class associated with altered mental status, anxiety, and confusion.
A septic patient with a lactate of 4.2 mmol/L and hypotension despite 30 mL/kg IV fluids should receive which additional intervention?
Answer: Initiate vasopressors (norepinephrine)
Persistent hypotension after adequate fluid resuscitation in septic shock requires vasopressors, with norepinephrine as first-line.
Pulsus paradoxus greater than 10 mmHg is a classic finding in which condition?
Answer: Cardiac tamponade
Pulsus paradoxus >10 mmHg, an exaggerated fall in BP during inspiration, is a classic sign of cardiac tamponade.
Which finding is most suggestive of obstructive shock due to massive pulmonary embolism?
Answer: Right heart strain on ECG with hypoxia and tachycardia
Massive PE causes obstructive shock with right heart strain, manifested by S1Q3T3 pattern, tachycardia, and hypoxia.
Which vasopressor is the recommended first-line agent for septic shock?
Answer: Norepinephrine
Norepinephrine is the first-line vasopressor in septic shock due to its potent alpha effects with modest beta activity and favorable side-effect profile.